Catering for your daughter’s communion reception involves careful planning to ensure the event is memorable, enjoyable, and appropriate for the occasion.

Here are some steps and ideas to help you cater effectively:

1. Planning and Preparation

• Guest List: Determine the number of guests, including family, friends, and any church members you might invite.
• Venue: Decide whether the reception will be at home, a hall, or a restaurant.
• Theme and Decorations: Choose a theme and decorations that reflect the significance of the communion, such as white and gold colors, religious symbols, and flowers.

2. Menu Selection

• Balance: Ensure a balance of appetizers, main courses, side dishes, and desserts.
• Dietary Requirements: Consider any dietary restrictions or allergies among your guests, such as gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan options.
• Kid-Friendly Options: Include items that are popular with children, as well as more sophisticated options for adults.

3. Appetizers and Finger Foods

• Mini Sandwiches: Cucumber, chicken salad, and ham and cheese sandwiches.
• Fruit and Cheese Platter: Assorted cheeses, fresh fruits, and crackers.
• Vegetable Platter: With dips such as hummus, ranch, and guacamole.
• Mini Quiches: Variety of fillings like spinach and feta, bacon and cheddar.

4. Main Courses

• Baked Ziti or Lasagna: Easy to prepare in large quantities and always a hit.
• Chicken Dishes: Such as chicken parmesan, grilled chicken, or chicken tenders for kids.
• Salads: Garden salad, Caesar salad, and pasta salad.

5. Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers.
• Mashed Potatoes or Roasted Potatoes: Comforting and versatile.
• Rice Pilaf: A simple and elegant side dish.

6. Desserts

• Communion Cake: A special cake decorated to celebrate the occasion.
• Cupcakes: Easy to serve and can be decorated with religious symbols.
• Fruit Tarts: Fresh and light, suitable for spring or summer.
• Cookies and Pastries: A variety of cookies, brownies, and pastries.

7. Beverages

• Non-Alcoholic Drinks: Lemonade, iced tea, fruit punch, and soft drinks.
• Coffee and Tea: For the adults, along with sugar, cream, and other condiments.
• Water: Ensure there is plenty of water available for everyone.

8. Additional Considerations

• Buffet Style: Consider a buffet-style setup to make it easier for guests to serve themselves and choose what they like.
• Professional Catering: If your budget allows, hiring a professional catering service can ease the burden and ensure a polished presentation.
• Rentals: If needed, rent tables, chairs, linens, and serving ware.
• Entertainment: Plan some light entertainment or activities for children, such as a craft table or outdoor games.

Sample Menu for a Communion Reception

Appetizers:

• Mini bruschetta
• Cheese and fruit platter
• Vegetable platter with dips

Main Course:

• Baked ziti
• Grilled chicken breasts
• Caesar salad
• Pasta salad

Side Dishes:

• Roasted vegetables
• Garlic bread

Desserts:

• Communion-themed cake
• Cupcakes
• Fruit tarts

Beverages:

• Lemonade
• Iced tea
• Coffee and tea
• Assorted soft drinks

By focusing on these elements, you can create a lovely and memorable communion reception for your daughter and your guests.